Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

Name: Pumpkin Pasta Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8.8 ounces pasta (your choice: fettuccine, penne, etc.); 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature; ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ cup shaved parmesan cheese; 3 sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish

By:

Alejandro

Published:

February 5, 2026

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The leaves are changing, and there’s a crisp chill in the air, which means it’s the perfect time to whip up a batch of Pumpkin Pasta Sauce. This delightful recipe brings together the cozy flavors of fall, giving your pasta a creamy, rich taste that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine a creamy sauce made with pumpkin puree, garlic, and just the right blend of spices. Served over your favorite pasta, it’s an effortless way to celebrate the season and impress your family or guests. Plus, you can whip it up in no time! So grab your apron and let’s get started. You’ll be savoring each delicious bite and wondering why you didn’t try this earlier!

Why This Recipe Works

The creamy texture and rich flavor of this Pumpkin Pasta Sauce not only elevate your traditional pasta dishes but also celebrate the essence of fall. The combination of pumpkin and warm spices creates a unique sauce that tantalizes the taste buds while embracing the comfort associated with seasonal cooking. As temperatures cool down, it’s this kind of comforting meal that comforts the soul.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is the perfect blend of cozy and delicious. It’s quick to make, allowing you to whip up a comforting meal on a busy weeknight. Plus, this sauce is versatile—great as a main dish or even a side! The subtle hints of pumpkin and spices will remind you of autumn delights, making it an instant favorite. It’s a dish that brings family together and makes your home smell like a fall retreat.

Ingredients

8.8 ounces pasta (your choice: fettuccine, penne, etc.)
2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ cup shaved parmesan cheese
3 sprigs of fresh thyme for garnish

Cooking the Pasta

Cook the Pasta

To begin, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions, which usually takes about 6 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain and set it aside for now. It’s important to keep your pasta slightly undercooked since it will continue cooking in the sauce, adding that nice texture we all love.

Making the Pumpkin Sauce

Sauté Garlic

Now, let’s focus on the sauce. In a deep skillet, melt 2 Tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, toss in your 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. The aroma is absolutely amazing and sets the stage for the rest of this delicious sauce!

Add Flour

Next, stir in 2 Tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This is going to help thicken your sauce. Cook, stirring constantly for about 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden. You want to get that nice, nutty flavor that flour adds to your sauce.

Pour in Milk

Gradually add 2 cups of milk to the skillet while stirring continuously. This helps avoid lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce should start to thicken, and you can definitely feel the comfort coming through.

Mix in Pumpkin and Spices

Now for the magic. Carefully incorporate 1 cup of pumpkin puree and the 4 ounces of room temperature cream cheese into the sauce. Mix in ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Stir for another 2 to 3 minutes until everything is well-blended and creamy. This is where it gets really exciting—a beautiful, golden sauce is on its way!

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Finally, add your cooked pasta to the skillet with the pumpkin sauce. Gently toss until every piece of pasta is well-coated with that creamy goodness. The warmth of the sauce will envelop the pasta, creating that perfect bite with each forkful.

Serve and Garnish

To serve, plate your pasta and top it off with ¼ cup of shaved parmesan cheese, fresh thyme sprigs, and a sprinkle of freshly cracked pepper. The little extras not only look beautiful but enhance the flavor too!

Serving Suggestions

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also enjoy it alongside roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. It really rounds out the dish, making for a delightful dining experience.

Tips for Success

Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to avoid lumps in the sauce.
Adjust spices according to your preference for heat; increase red pepper flakes for more kick or decrease for a milder option.

Variations

If you’re looking to change things up a bit, consider these variations. For a vegan option, substitute cream cheese with a plant-based alternative and use almond or soy milk. You can also add cooked chicken or sausage for added protein and heartiness. These adjustments make this pumpkin pasta sauce work for a variety of diets and preferences.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess. It’s almost as good as the first time!

Pairing Ideas

For your drink, consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir. The flavors contrast beautifully with the pumpkin sauce. If you’re not into wine, a sparkling apple cider complements the flavors beautifully, making for a cozy meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin puree?
No, pumpkin pie filling contains additional sugars and spices that alter the flavor of the dish.

2. How can I make this sauce spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to suit your heat preference.

3. Is this pasta sauce gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta.

4. Can I freeze the pumpkin pasta sauce?
Yes, this sauce freezes well. Just store it in an airtight container, and it can last for up to 3 months.

5. What can I serve with pumpkin pasta sauce?
It goes well with garlic bread, salads, or roasted seasonal vegetables.

This Pumpkin Pasta Sauce is not just another recipe; it’s an experience that invites the flavors of fall into your kitchen. Easy to make and full of heartwarming flavors, it’s perfect for cozy dinners or holiday gatherings. Embrace the essence of autumn with a dish that warms the soul and pleases the palate. Enjoy the comforts of home-cooked goodness!